NITDA Accuses TikTok, X of Tax Non-Compliance in Nigeria, Commends Google and Meta
By Okafor Joseph Afam, December 13, 2024
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has accused social media platforms TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) of failing to comply with Nigeria’s tax filing requirements. The allegations were detailed in a report titled “Analysis of Compliance with Laws and Misinformation Management by Social Media Platforms in Nigeria.”
The report highlights a breach of the country’s regulatory framework, as the platforms were found to be non-compliant with obligations outlined in the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries (CoP for ICSP/II).
While TikTok and X were flagged, NITDA commended companies like Google, LinkedIn, and Meta for meeting their tax compliance obligations. The agency emphasized that conformity with the Code is essential for fostering trust, ensuring user safety, and combating misuse of digital platforms.
The Code of Practice, introduced in 2022 in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), aims to promote accountability, mitigate online harm, and create a safer digital ecosystem.
Key Compliance Requirements:
- Annual Reports: Large Service Platforms (LSPs) must submit annual compliance reports to NITDA.
- Physical Offices: Platforms are required to establish local offices and appoint liaison officers for communication with the government.
- Fact-Checking: Engagement of certified fact-checkers to combat misinformation.
Despite their lapses in tax compliance, TikTok and X were credited for moderating harmful content, alongside other platforms. The report detailed actions taken in 2023 to curb violations, including the closure of accounts and removal of harmful posts:
Accounts Closed: 9,610,054 (Google), 691,596 (LinkedIn), 599,776 (TikTok), 1,198,205 (X).
Posts Deleted: 59,670,247 (Google), 237,837 (LinkedIn), 4,578,858 (TikTok), 168,500 (X).
NITDA concluded by urging all social media platforms to prioritize compliance with Nigerian laws to build a transparent and digitally responsible ecosystem. The agency reiterated its commitment to enforcing the regulatory framework and ensuring that platforms contribute positively to Nigeria’s digital environment.
